Manchester United is reportedly looking to acquire centre-backs Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire from Real Madrid and Leicester respectively.

English news outlet The Mirror has claimed that United boss Jose Mourinho has settled on the two as his preferred picks to solve the defensive problems in his squad, which were on full display in their recent 1-0 loss to Newcastle.

Varane has long been rumoured to be on the Special One’s wish list after the two worked well together during the tactician’s tenure at Madrid, who might be open to selling the workhorse on account of their struggles this season.

Maguire has on the other hand become one of the most sought after defenders in the Premier League on account of his stellar performances, subsequently garnering Mourinho’s attention and admiration.

Cutting losses

Speculations suggest that current options Chris Smalling and Phil Jones will likely be offloaded in order to create the room and raise the funds needed to acquire Varane and Maguire.

The Englishmen were particularly singled out for their shortcomings in United’s loss to Newcastle and appear set to be shown the door in the not-so-distant future.